Peugeot->ke68 drew some considerable attention at the Paris Auto Show last year when they introduced the EX1 electric concept for the very first time. This year, the French automaker is looking to repeat that with the introduction of their latest concept, the six-seater MPV concept called the HX1.

Blessed with a unique layout that makes use of Peugeot's new design language, the HX1 is the company's presentation of what their 'big' models could look like in the future. The new revolutionary design includes "half-scissor" doors and a "floating" front grille akin to some of the company's newest production models. The HX1 also features a hybrid powertrain system consisting of a 2.2-liter diesel engine and a rear-mounted 70kW electric motor.

All told, the HX1 Concept is Peugeot's attempt in breaking new ground with their future models. No word yet on if the car is headed to production anytime soon, but that's neither here nor there. For now, the important thing is that the French automaker is slowly stretching its legs, leaving behind the conservative 'label' that they've been carrying for the longest time.

UPDATE 09/06/11: Peugeot has released a pair of new videos for the HX1 Concept. One is a walk-around video showing the details of the car while the other is a promo video that looks more like a product endorsement than anything else. Check out both videos by clicking the above photo.

Find out more about the Peugeot HX1 Concept after the jump

2012 Peugeot HX1 Metamorphosis

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2012 Peugeot HX1 Metamorphosis
  • Engine/Motor: 2.2-liter diesel engine and 70kW motor
  • Horsepower: 299 horsepower
  • Transmission: six-speed automatic transmission (front wheels)
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

As a concept, the Peugeot HX1 offers plenty of breathtaking styling cues that will likely not end up in the production guise - if there is one.

Aesthetically, the HX1 Concept makes use of the same "floating" front grille that Peugeot has previously used on the 508. Adding to the "Metamorphosis" theme of the concept - a Greek word that translates to 'transformation' - is the car's supposed ability to adapt to whatever driving conditions may pass. Big words for a concept, but hardly something we'll see moving forward. At least not anytime soon.

Nevertheless, the HX1 still packs plenty of unique features, including four “half-scissor” doors that afford the look of classic luxury and make for easy access to the interior. There's also the set of seven-spoke alloy wheels that have been made to look like turbine blades when the car isn't moving, opening up to form a flat surface for better aerodynamic performance when the car is on the move. The car also makes use of side skirts and a spoiler that deploys only when the concept is moving at speeds north of 62 mph.

Interior

Inside, the HX1 offers room for six passengers with a 2-seat, 3-row configuration. The seats blend in well with the extensive interior set-up, including the wide array use of materials like natural oak with inlaid fiber optics, brushed metal, and leather.

The car's steering column also offers a fresh take on what we're all accustomed to these days. For one, the steering column moves electrically along with the seat to make for a spacious and seemingly accessible interior. The steering wheel can also change its settings when the driver selects the “cruising” mode for stability and comfort while the central screen can be re-adjusted depending on the whims of the driver.

And just to provide a feeling of concept awesomeness, Peugeot finished up the interior by adding a number of cool features that include touch-sensitive screens and a marble-adorned center console that comes with its own minibar and coffee machine.

Only in a concept, folks.

Performance

The Peugeot HX1 Concept is powered by a 2.2-liter diesel engine that produces 204 horsepower and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that powers the concept's two front wheels. As for the rear wheels, power comes from a rear-mounted 70kW electric motor. The said electric motor can power the electric motor at low speeds while emitting zero emissions. When combined with the diesel engine, the concept hits a total output of 299 horsepower.

The resulting average fuel consumption can hit 73.4 US mpg with CO2 emissions hitting at just 83 g/km. The HX1 also takes advantage of Peugeot's own hybrid technology featuring plug-in charging capability for its lithium-ion batteries from a standard 240V socket. This feature enables the concept to hit a longer range just on pure electric mode alone, capable of reaching 18.4 miles on a single charge.

When Will We See It?

It's a concept version so expect the production version - if its green-lighted - to be stripped down to what is really important. Having said that, we can expect the HX1 to turn some heads at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show when it is unveiled for the very first time.